News Highlight

Fifa is investigating five Premier League clubs over possible violations of rules on the signing of foreign players under the age of 18 with the quintet risking transfer bans if found guilty by the governing body’s disciplinary committee.

Chelsea are to reward their captain, Gary Cahill, for six years of fine service with a loan in January to secure more regular first-team football in a move which will effectively bring the curtain down on his career at Stamford Bridge.

Ross Barkley’s eye-catching progress at Chelsea over recent weeks has convinced Maurizio Sarri the midfielder can have a key role in the team, with the head coach having initially feared the England international was “in trouble” when striving to adapt to his philosophy.

Cesc Fàbregas remains hopeful of convincing Chelsea to offer him a new contract. The midfielder’s deal runs out next summer and he is aware the ball is in Chelsea’s court. However Fàbregas is enjoying life under Maurizio Sarri and the 31-year-old, who has dropped down the pecking order after missing the start of the season

Michael Okoye is an ardent football fan as well as a writer. He lives somewhere in West Africa with Lions and Leopards for company. He takes interest in football and detests mediocrity in sports writing. He has a massive man crush on Juan Mata. A Chelsea fan and a great lover of wits and sarcasm.